Introduction

Tom Brady, the NFL’s legendary quarterback and a seven-time Super Bowl champion, is gearing up to defend a different crown this summer. Known for his unparalleled skills on the football field, Brady will be showcasing his competitive spirit among a host of athletes at Fanatics Fest 2026 in New York City from July 16–19. This fun-filled event is not just about sportsmanship but also aims to engage fans by allowing them to compete directly against their favorite sports stars.

What to Expect at Fanatics Fest 2026

Fanatics Fest is set to reinvigorate the excitement of live sports competitions while bringing together fans and athletes in a unique setting. Following the success of last year's event, which featured a $1 million prize, this year’s Fanatics Games will up the ante with a staggering $2 million prize pool. The competition aims to foster a sense of community among sports enthusiasts, as well as between fans and professional athletes.

Star-Studded Athlete Lineup

Fans can look forward to seeing Brady share the spotlight with an eclectic group of sports stars, including NBA superstar James Harden, NFL legend Rob Gronkowski, UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje, and WWE icons Cody Rhodes, Jey Uso, Rhea Ripley, and Liv Morgan. This gathering of prominent figures from various sports adds an electrifying flair to the event, making it a must-see for sports lovers.

Fan Participation and Expanded Format

The Fanatics Games will not only allow fans to watch their icons compete but also give them a chance to participate. This year, the format is expanding to accommodate more participants and more dynamic events. Following last year’s successful challenges that tested skills in various sports—from throwing a football to shooting a basketball—2026 promises to deliver even more advanced gameplay and streamlined scoring systems.

According to a press release from Fanatics, “In 2026, the competition returns bigger, faster, and more competitive than ever with streamlined scoring, enhanced gameplay, and a production experience built for both in-venue excitement and global livestream audiences.” Such innovations aim to elevate the overall experience for fans attending the event in person or watching online.

Qualifying Events Across the Country

To ensure that every aspiring competitor has a shot at glory, Fanatics will host in-person qualifiers at various Dick's House of Sport locations. The events will take place in Knoxville, Tennessee, on May 9; Kennesaw, Georgia, on May 30; Houston on June 13; and Boston on June 28. Participants will compete in sport-specific challenges, and the top three finishers at each event will secure slots in the Fanatics Games.

For those unable to attend in-person qualifiers, Fanatics is also introducing a video application process, allowing fans nationwide to virtually compete for a spot in the games. This inclusion represents a significant evolution in how Fanatics engage with its community, extending the opportunity to a wider audience.

Tom Brady's Legacy

Brady’s presence at the Fanatics Games has become synonymous with the event's success. Last year's competition saw him not just dominate on the field against notable names like Kevin Durant, Joe Burrow, Eli Manning, and future NFL stars like Travis Hunter and CeeDee Lamb, but also act with class and sportsmanship. After his victory last year, Brady graciously opted to distribute his winnings, pledging $5,000 to every fan who competed instead of keeping the full $1 million prize for himself. Such gestures have only solidified his image as a champion both on and off the field.

Conclusion

As anticipation builds for the Fanatics Games at Fanatics Fest 2026, sports fans can expect a thrilling mix of competition, entertainment, and camaraderie. With Tom Brady at the helm alongside a diverse lineup of athletes, the event promises a unique atmosphere where sports fans can finally get the chance to prove they have what it takes to challenge their heroes. This summer in New York City is bound to be an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.